How long must a Ohio landlord keep records of the security deposit?

Ohio landlords should keep deposit-related records for at least the statute of limitations period for a deposit dispute, typically 4 to 6 years depending on the state. This includes the original deposit receipt, the itemized statement at move-out, any invoices supporting deductions, photographs of the unit at move-in and move-out, and the move-in inspection checklist. After the statutory deadline (30 days under ORC 5321.16) for returning the deposit has passed, the records are the landlord's defense if the tenant later sues. Without records, the landlord typically loses any contested deduction. Cloud-stored, dated records are best practice. Up to 2x the wrongfully withheld amount plus attorney fees under ORC 5321.16(C) if the landlord acts in bad faith.

Source: ORC 5321.16